Bogaerts vs the Attorney General of Ontario: enforcement of provincial animal welfare legislation in Ontario

Bogaerts vs the Attorney General of Ontario: enforcement of provincial animal welfare legislation in Ontario

On January 2, 2019, a decision was made in Superior Court which will impact the enforcement of provincial animal welfare legislation in Ontario.

In the case of Bogaerts vs the Attorney General of Ontario, the court has ruled‎ that it is unconstitutional for the Government of Ontario to permit a charity to provide enforcement of legislation. The ruling has been suspended for a one year period to allow the Government of Ontario time to determine how they would like to proceed with animal welfare enforcement across the province.

The Ontario SPCA respects the decision of the court.‎ This is an issue for the Government of Ontario to address. The Ontario SPCA will continue to provide animal protection services while the government determines how they wish to proceed. Should you have a concern for the welfare of an animal, call 310-SPCA (7722) and we will respond accordingly.